Can carpet cleaning be harmful to my dog?

The short answer

Professional carpet cleaning is safe for pets when the cleaner uses pet-safe solutions and rinses the carpet so no residue is left. Residue is the real concern: pets lie on the carpet and lick their paws.

What to ask

Ask what products are used and whether the carpet is rinsed. Ask for fragrance-free if your pet is sensitive.

Signs of residue and what to do

If carpet feels sticky or stiff after cleaning, or your dog licks its paws more than usual, residue may have been left behind. A rinse with plain water extraction usually fixes it. Choosing a cleaner who rinses in the first place avoids the problem.

After cleaning

Keep pets off the carpet until it is dry, usually 4 to 8 hours. Walk them through damp areas with dry paws if needed.

Around Long Island

Dog owners in Wantagh, Seaford, East Northport and Holbrook are some of our most frequent pet-odor customers.